Coach Makes Clemson Player Take Bus Home After Throwing Punch

By Bill GalluccioOct 21, 2019

COLLEGE FOOTBALL: OCT 19 Clemson at Louisville

Clemson Tigers head coach Dabo Swinney was not happy with all of his players following a 45-10 victory against Louisville. Cornerback Andrew Booth Jr. was ejected in the third quarter of the game for punching Louisville's Trenell Troutman while he was on the ground. Although the referees were quick to throw a flag for unsportsmanlike conduct, Swinney had already sent Booth to the locker room for his actions.

After the game, Swinney apologized to Louisville coach Scott Satterfield for the actions of his defensive player.

"That's not who we are," Swinney said, "and that's not who he is."

Booth apologized to his teammates and coaches after the game, but he was still in hot water with his coach. Swinney decided to give Booth plenty of time to think about his actions. While the rest of the team got to fly home from Louisville to Clemson, Booth had to make the 450 mile trip on the managers' bus.

"[He] has responded well," Swinney said. "He is disappointed in himself, embarrassed. He has apologized to our team and our AD. He's been extremely remorseful. What happened is way out of character for who he is. Very pleased with how he has taken ownership. He had a long bus ride home last night and plenty of time to think about it."